It was a phenomenal year for books in 2019, but which gripping titles proved to be the best? We’ve struggled to narrow it down ourselves, but here you’ll find our guide to the best in each genre that 2019 had to offer.
With input from the rest of the w&h team, we’ve concluded that these books are worth adding to your 2020 reading list.
Our books editor’s pick of the year:
Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Unique, inventive and stylish, this accomplished novel about a rock’n’roll band in the seventies charts the rise of songwriter, Daisy Jones, and The Six – the band she is asked to join. In an interview-style novel we begin to uncover why the band split at the height of their popularity. Featuring completely believable characters, it’s hard not to believe this wasn’t an actual band, although you may find yourself listening to Fleetwood Mac while reading it. It’s exciting and intoxicating, and Daisy Jones is effortlessly cool.
Available from R249.00 at exclusivebooks.co.za
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Best Thriller
Gone by Leona Deakin
Dark, with a focus on psychopathy and the way some of the most twisted individuals can effortlessly blend into society, this is undoubtedly our favourite thriller this year for its sheer cleverness and tension. The protagonist Dr Augusta Bloom, psychologist and private detective, is drawn into a complex and chilling game, the stakes of which you can’t begin to imagine. What sets this apart is the final reveal which comes as a genuine shock and will linger in your mind for many hours after.
Available from R180.00 at exclusivebooks.co.za
Best Romance
What Happens Now by Sophia Money-Coutts
This is one romantic tale that gets the balance of true-to-life humour and emotion just right. The witty turn of phrase and ability to create a cast of characters that wouldn’t be out of place in every reader’s everyday lives is undoubtedly Sophia Money-Coutts’ premier skill. It’s easy to race through in a matter of days as Lil’s story of unexpected pregnancy, misunderstandings, supportive friends and love in unlikely places make for a truly joyful read.
Available from R313.00 at exclusivebooks.co.za
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Best Uplift
The Truths and Triumphs of Grace Atherton by Anstey Harris
There’s something about this debut novel that fills you with hope and absolute joy, even though quite early on we realise Grace’s life is about to fall apart. Grace lives a quiet life running a violin shop whilst devoting her life to David, her partner of eight years – until a tragic event turns her world upside down. As she picks up the pieces Grace forges unlikely friendships against a backdrop of romantic European cities and beautiful symphonies. We loved the quirky characters and story of promise, despite the heartbreak. Exquisite!
Available from R200.00 at exclusivebooks.co.za
Best Historical
The Doll Factory by Elizabeth Macneal
We knew this evocative novel was destined to be a success the moment we set eyes on the stunning cover. And we weren’t wrong. Set in 1850s London, this gripping historical thriller follows a young woman desperate to break free from the restrictions placed on her. When asked to model for the pre-Raphaelite artist, Louis Frost, she agrees, but only if he teaches her to paint. Leaving the doll factory, where she works with her sister, her world opens up, but there’s someone watching – and his obsession is growing deeper every day. Painting a masterpiece with her vivid descriptions, you will be gasping for breath as the story reaches its conclusion. This is an assured debut and we can’t wait to see what Macneal’s imagination will conjure up next.
Available from R306.00 at exclusivebooks.co.za
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Best Non Fiction
Letter To My Younger Self – The Big Issue with Jane Graham
As Oscar Wilde once said “experience is one thing you can’t get for nothing” – although reading this book may enlighten you somewhat. More than 10 years ago, The Big Issue began asking people what they would tell their younger self, and the results are delightful, moving and inspiring. From the likes of Paul McCartney, Julie Walters, Desmond Tutu and Buzz Aldrin who share their wisdom, there’s a lesson in there for us all, which makes their tales all the more entertaining. This book is a keeper.
Available from R378.00 at exclusivebooks.co.za
Best Crime Fiction
The Long Call by Ann Cleeves
We love a police procedural, be it film or book, and our favourite this year is definitely the latest release from Vera creator and Queen of Crime, Ann Cleeves. Typically atmospheric, it begins with a funeral attended by the book’s detective hero and the discovery of a body on the Devon coast, a tattoo of an albatross on his neck. From there, things only get more intense and intriguing and the descriptive way Cleeves sets the scene and brings to life her primary characters is outstanding.
Available from R306.00 at exclusivebooks.co.za
Best Literary Fiction
The Confession by Jessie Burton
It’s hard not to fall in love with Jessie Burton’s hypnotic writing, and The Confession is no exception. In this absorbing tale of self discovery, which explores the complexities of motherhood, we meet successful writer Constance (Connie) Holden and Elise Morceau who meet by chance on Hampstead Heath in 1980. Elise follows Connie to the glamorous world of LA, but it’s not long before she makes a decision that will change everything. For Burton’s effortless prose and impeccable perceptions on women, this is a novel you’ll want to take your time over. It’s a treat indeed.
Available from R306.00 at exclusivebooks.co.za
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